Durban, South Africa – The Unlimited, an authorised financial services provider, has
stepped up as the title sponsor of The Unlimited African Warriors Under 13 Cricket
Tournament, set to take place from 21 to 22 March 2025 at Kingsmead.
“The Unlimited African Warriors Under 13 Cricket Tournament is a platform for young players
from eThekwini to play the game they love at one of South Africa’s most iconic cricket
grounds,” says African Warriors CC Chairman and tournament organiser, Cebo Knowledge
Vilakazi. He adds that competing at Kingsmead will create an unforgettable experience for
the young cricketers, offering them the perfect stage to showcase their talent.
The Unlimited brings a wealth of cricket sponsorship experience to the tournament, having
previously backed the Titans Cricket Team (then known as The Unlimited Titans) in the early
2010s. Group CEO of The Unlimited, Andrew Wood, says that he sees the tournament as a
natural extension of the company’s daily work, “Whether we’re providing South African
families with unbeatable value or creating platforms for young cricketers to showcase their
talent, our purpose remains the same – to shift lives,” he explains. “We’ve witnessed how the
right support at the right time can transform someone’s future, and that’s why we have given
this event our backing. It’s about opening doors, creating opportunities and giving these
young stars a real shot at something bigger.”
Vilakazi shares that the African Warriors Cricket Club was founded in 1996. “For nearly 30
years, it has focused on bringing cricket to children in townships, nurturing young talent and
helping them take their first steps towards a future in cricket.” He adds, “With the launch of
this tournament, young boys and girls will have the chance to demonstrate their skills,
creating a springboard for the next generation of talent to be discovered.”
The two-day tournament will bring together young cricketers from various eThekwini clubs
including African Warriors CC, Kwa Mashu CC, Umlazi CC, and West CC to compete, all
dreaming of lifting the trophy. These talented players represent a diverse cross-section of
Durban schools including Westville Senior Primary, Gugulethu Primary, Penzance Primary,
Ndongeni Primary, DPHS, Sukuma Primary and more.
Additionally, professional players and coaches will lead coaching clinics and mentorship
sessions for the young athletes. In fact, Proteas all-rounder Andile Simelane will inspire
young players by sharing his journey from township cricket to international success. Joining
him are other notable figures in the game, including Hollywood Bets Dolphins Assistant
Coach Mduduzi Mbatha, North West Dragons Assistant Coach Brady Barends, and their
keeper Mfanafuthi Shange, who will all offer their time and expertise. The tournament will
also host Zanele Koloko (Africa Forum) and Linda Zondi (African Warriors CC Director of
Cricket), both key figures in cricket development.
There is no doubt that The Unlimited African Warriors U13 Cricket Tournament will bring
Kingsmead to life with energy, talent, and passion for the game. It will be a celebration of
young players giving their all, chasing their dreams, and aspiring to one day wear the
Proteas jersey. “This tournament is about more than just the game. It’s about mentorship,
skills development, and showing young players that cricket can be their future,” Vilakazi
concludes.
In addition to The Unlimited, the tournament is also sponsored by KH Sports, Hollywood
Bets Foundation, Thirsti, Kookaburra, Umbhanso Medical Services, and KFC.
Tournament Schedule:
Friday, 21 March 2025
07h30 – Teams Arrive
08h00 – Opening Ceremony
09h00 – Semi-Final 1: African Warriors vs Umlazi
09h00 – Ladies Health Presentation
13h30 – Semi-Final 2: West vs Kwa Mashu
17h00 – Matches End
Saturday, 22 March 2025
07h30 – Teams Arrive
08h00 – Coaching Clinics
09h00 – 3rd Place Playoff
13h30 – Final: Winner Semi 1 vs Winner Semi 2
17h00 – Prize Giving
ENDS
WORD COUNT: 625
A Press Release on Behalf of:
Andrew Wood
Group CEO: The Unlimited
Disseminated by:
Thulisile Mhlongo
PR Account Executive: Say Watt
071 326 9830